Thomas J. Matthews Jr.

Thomas J. Matthews Jr., 74 years old, passed away peacefully on 29 January 2026, surrounded by those who loved him, leaving behind a life marked by service, love, and quiet strength.
Tom was born in Canton, Ohio, to Thomas and Carol Matthews. He attended Perry High School, where he was known for his love of music and proudly played drums in a band that won a state competition, an early glimpse of the personality and energy he carried throughout his life.
On October 8, 1982, Tom married the love of his life, Joni. Together they shared decades of travel, adventure, and memories, eventually settling in Stone Creek, Ohio, after many years of living life fully and boldly.
Tom was truly a jack of all trades. He served his country bravely in the Navy during the Vietnam War. After returning home, he poured his drive and creativity into many pursuits, including entrepreneurship. He started his own telecommunications company in the US Virgin Islands before returning to Ohio, where he enjoyed being a salesman in various fields.
He also had a deep affection for animals, everything from his parrots during his island years to his beloved black lab, yorkies, and cats later in life.
Above all, Tom was a devoted Christian. His faith and his church community meant a great deal to him, and he valued the relationships and connections he built there over the years.
Tom is survived by his beloved wife, Joni; his dear children, Richard, Shelly, and Paul Matthews; and his loving sisters, Nancy Hesson and husband Bob, Missy Gross and husband Jim, Kim Heade and husband Bill, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.